February 23, 2026
What Is a Microwave License and Who Typically Holds One?
Microwave licenses authorize point-to-point and point-to-multipoint links in high-frequency bands. Here's who uses them and how they appear in FCC records.
Microwave radio licenses authorize point-to-point and point-to-multipoint communications links using frequencies generally above 1 GHz. These high-frequency links carry enormous amounts of data — backbone traffic for cellular networks, private business communications, utility SCADA systems, and more. Microwave licenses are some of the most technically detailed records in the FCC ULS.
Common Microwave Frequency Bands
- 2.1 GHz (2110–2150 MHz) — Multi-channel Video Distribution
- 6 GHz (5.925–6.875 GHz) — Common carrier and private fixed microwave
- 11 GHz (10.7–11.7 GHz) — Widely used for cellular backhaul
- 18 GHz (17.7–19.7 GHz) — Short-range high-capacity links
- 23 GHz (21.2–23.6 GHz) — Very short range, high capacity
- 28 GHz (27.5–28.35 GHz) — 5G millimeter wave
Who Holds Microwave Licenses?
Microwave licenses are held by a diverse set of organizations:
- Wireless carriers: AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and others hold thousands of microwave licenses for cellular tower backhaul — the links connecting cell towers to the core network
- Electric utilities: Use microwave for grid control (SCADA) and operational communications
- Railroads: Microwave links along rail corridors for operational communications
- Cable companies: Some cable operators use licensed microwave for segment interconnection
- Government agencies: Federal, state, and local governments hold extensive microwave licenses
- Broadcasters: Television stations and networks use microwave for studio-to-transmitter links (STLs)
Microwave License Records in the ULS
Microwave license records in the ULS are more complex than amateur or GMRS records. Each license specifies precise geographic coordinates for transmit and receive sites, antenna azimuth and elevation, frequency, polarization, and power. This technical detail allows the FCC to ensure links do not interfere with each other. Researchers studying cellular infrastructure or utility networks frequently mine FCC microwave license data to map physical infrastructure.